Pakistan Shirt Sparks Stir At IND Vs ENG Test, Fan Told To Cover Jersey By Security

Fan asked to remove Pakistan jersey during Manchester Test (Credit: X)

After a fan was requested to cover up their Pakistani shirt during the fourth Test match between England and India at Old Trafford, Lancashire announced that they are looking into the issue. The fan, who goes by Farooq Nazar in Pakistani media, shared a video on social media showing how a member of the ground security team first asked him to hide the jersey, which was a duplicate of Pakistan's classic green limited-overs uniform.

The security officer, who claims to be employed by Lancashire, says: "I've been asked by control if you can cover that shirt up, please." A steward is heard later claiming the clothing "might be considered nationalistic".

Nazar is seen in the video growing more agitated in response to repeated requests to hide. A policeman eventually approaches him and requests that they carry on the talk outside the stands. Then, instead of covering his clothing, Nazar reportedly chose to get off the ground.

Following a brief military conflict in May, the long-frozen political ties between India and Pakistan have reached their highest point this year. These difficulties have affected the BCCI and PCB's relationship; since 2012–13, the two teams have not played a bilateral series, and since 2007–08, they have not played Test cricket. As part of a hybrid solution to the situation, a neutral venue has been introduced to hold their games because their participation in ICC events held by either nation has recently been troublesome.

Lancashire acknowledged they were investigating the incident; however, it is unclear whether day of the Test—which finished in a tie as India batted their way through five sessions—it occurred.

"We are aware of the incident referenced and are taking steps to understand the facts and context surrounding the matter fully," a Lancashire spokesperson said.

Lancashire has publicly discussed strengthening their ties with India in recent years. Sanjiv Goenka's RPSG business, which owns the IPL's Lucknow Super Giants, is scheduled to acquire 70% of the ground's Hundred team, Manchester Originals. Daniel Gidney, the chief executive of Lancashire, has proposed that the BCCI be granted a share in the 100-ball competition.

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